Astronomers Measure the Long Reach of a Quasar
Astronomers have discovered that the quasar H1821_643 emits powerful winds that carry energy far beyond its host galaxy. This finding suggests that supermassive black holes have a much larger impact on their surrounding environment than previously believed.
Why it matters
Understanding the reach of quasar energy is crucial for developing accurate models of galaxy formation and the evolution of the universe.
There are a number of things in the Universe that could wipe out life as we know it, but - for now, and for Earth - a blast from our galaxy's supermassive black hole isn't one of them. That's not to say that Sagittarius A* doesn't pose a danger. If it wakes up someday and blasts out a strong wind, that definitely could affect Earth. It could well have powered a quasar in the past, and could do so again.
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